by Pamela Starr

Small business owners often like the idea of sending email newsletters to their clients. Email newsletters are a great marketing tool. They can dramatically increase sales. But often small business owners don't know what to write, or how to create a newsletter. If there is a system in place, the process is easier than what people think.

The key is to plan the newsletter out before writing the first word. What sections will be included in the newsletter? Here are some ideas to get you started.

What is new with your business? This doesn't relate to a new product. This relates to a new location, a new staff member, etc.

What is new with your industry? Are there new laws? New regulations? New inventions? What have you learned about your industry lately? Did you go to a trade show? A seminar? Read a relevant book?

How do seasons or current events affect your business or industry?  If it is summer, how does that affect how people use your product? If it is tax time, what does that mean for your customers?

How do customers or clients use your product or service? Are there any unusual or unexpected things your clients have done with your product or service (of course, only print the good things!).

What new products or services are available? Is there a new lower priced version? Or maybe you now have a new premium product.

How can your clients share your information with their friends? This is an extremely important part of your newsletter. You want to be sure the people on your list forward your information on to other people they know.

Are you having a sale or special? Be sure everyone knows when the sale starts and ends.

Testimonials. Every time a client gives you a compliment, ask if you can share that in your newsletter. Most of the time the client will be flattered to see his name in print.

Questions and Answers. What are the most common questions your clients ask you? If a handful of people ask the same questions, chances are other people want the answer, too. "What would you do?" In this section, present a problem and ask your readers what they would do. This is a great way to get your readers involved. Publish the best responses in the next edition of your newsletter.

Pamela Starr is a marketing expert and the creator of The Starr Marketing Method™. She publishes a weekly ezine offering free marketing ideas. If you have tried marketing your business, and are frustrated with your results, check out Pamela's ezine and free report Easy and Affordable Marketing Tricks at: http://www.PamelaStarrOnline.com